Whiskey Del Bac Old Pueblo

Attended a Del Bac tasting this evening with their brand representative. I sampled several of their expressions and I can confirm that each of their expressions offers a distinct flavor profile. This is a truly unique new make! It has the creaminess of the barley and some smoke on the nose, but also on the nose is some vegetal mezcal funk. The finish is short and smooth without any of the burn you’d expect from new make.

This spirit is intensely smoky from beginning to end. The barley contributes a sweetness that feels familiar from Irish spirits, finishing nicely. Lacking wood tannins, it misses that element, making it a simpler drink suitable for mixing. It makes an excellent smoky Coke or Old Fashioned, and is great for sipping if you appreciate peat.

A whiskey reminiscent of mezcal for mezcal enthusiasts. Nose: Mesquite smoke, mezcal funk. Damp and fresh green notes, like freshly cut cactus. Malty sweetness. Palate: Mesquite smoke and wild honey. The green notes diminish further. Malty notes become brighter and lighter. Finish: A long, smoky finish. The green notes never become bitter, remaining almost sweet.

Clear whiskey just doesn't feel right. The absence of wood sugars is off-putting. That said, it still delivers a smoky impact, but without caramel, oak, and vanilla, it feels incomplete.

Smoky, reminiscent of mezcal. Smooth, with minimal burn. I'd rather have a whiskey stone with this.

A tequila that tastes of mesquite (but it's not tequila, and not unpleasant).